News & Updates
The beloved Dolly Parton passed away on August 25th, 2026. She was an amazing woman and legend and made a huge impact on the world. Not just with her music, but her huge heart for giving, too. Dolly Parton Imagination Library is one of our main initiates here at United Way of McLean County, and we are proud to be a part of her legacy.
“Inspired by her father, Dolly wanted to make sure that every young child in Sevier County, Tennessee, could have books of their very own, regardless of their family's circumstances. She hoped those books would encourage children to love reading, dream more and believe that their own possibilities were bigger than they might imagine. Today, in communities across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and Australia, children open their mailboxes to find a book with their name on it because people in their own communities decided Dolly's dream was worth sharing.” – DollyWood Foundation
Our team here at United Way of McLean County, including those at Women United of McLean County, are equally grateful for the longstanding partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Her vision to give the gift of reading to the youngest among us has positively impacted millions of children, including those right here in McLean County.
We've delivered over 200,000 books since we launched!
Today 3,348 kids in McLean County are receiving books!
If you feel inclined to honor the queen of country, consider a gift to the Imagination Library: